During a recent phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Ukraine must cede full control of Donetsk Oblast to Russia as a fundamental condition for any potential peace agreement. The Washington Post, citing two senior U.S. officials, reported the exchange on October 18, underscoring Putin’s unwav’tening position on the territory. This demand appears to be part of a broader strategy to negotiate the war’s resolution, with Putin also signaling openness to compromises on other regions such as Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts.
The conversation between Trump and Putin, which took place amid ongoing hostilities in eastern Ukraine, reflects the complex dynamics of international diplomacy in the conflict. While the U.S. has consistently advocated for a diplomatic resolution, Putin’s insistence on Donetsk highlights the deep divisions over territorial sovereignty. Analysts suggest that Trump’s role as a mediator may influence the trajectory of the peace talks, though the extent of his impact remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, the situation in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts remains a focal point for both sides. Russian forces have made significant advances in these regions, prompting the Ukrainian military to intensify counteroffensives. The potential for localized compromises could play a crucial role in easing tensions, but the overarching issue of Donetsk control continues to dominate the peace negotiations. As the conflict persists, the international community watches closely for any indications of a breakthrough in the peace process.